Former Observer journalist scoops national award

FORMER Hastings Observer journalist Robert Alderson has been named reporter of the year at the NCTJ Awards for Excellence in Journalism.

He joined the Observer as a trainee reporter in July 2009 and passed his senior journalism exams earlier this year with the highest marks in the country.

After two years as a much-valued member of the editorial team, he left in July this year to become online editor for arts and culture website It’s Nice That.

Rob said: “It was fantastic to win the award and a genuine surprise. I really enjoyed my time at the Observer and there is definitely a part of me that will be forever Hastings.”

Editor-in-Chief Keith Ridley said: “Hastings is a wonderful town for any journalist, and Rob certainly made the most of his time with us.

“He threw himself into community life, too, which is always the mark of a good reporter.

“Given that this was his first job in newspapers, Hastings will always be special to Rob. And we feel proud, too, that this town – and the Observer – gave him a start to what we know will be a very special career. We wish him continued success.”